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POLS 151-02, United States Politics, Fall 2004
Robinson, Rob
Robinson, Rob
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Political Science, Department of, Syllabus, Curriculum, Academic departments, Text, 2004 Fall
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Abstract
This course serves as an introduction to our political system. We will explore several distinct yet interrelated domains of American political life, including the philosophic underpinnings of our political system, our primary political institutions, the ways in which citizens organize and communicate about political life, and a few salient topics in contemporary politics. While centering on these four areas, readings and lectures will often diverge in unpredictable ways, providing a variety of political and philosophic issues for us to address and discuss. This course has a broad scope, seeking to introduce you to a variety of problems and ways of thinking about politics rather than immersing you in a few areas only.
Naturally, an introductory course must appeal both to those who are considering future politics classes as well as those who would sooner swim in the Mississippi. The reading load in this class will vary from light to heavy, depending on the week in question. However, even lighter selections should be read carefully and actively��you will gain little from a single reading of a particular article if you do not revisit it later or take some sort of notes. While such practices will undoubtedly help your course grade, they also aid in the more important goal of learning to think critically about the moral and political world around you.
I will frequently ask questions and initiate discussion in order to provide a more active learning environment. While speaking in front of your peers can be intimidating, voicing and offering your thoughts for potential criticism is a powerful learning tool.
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This syllabus was submitted to the Rhodes College Office of Academic Affairs by the course instructor.